Haute Cocoa: 3 Irresistible Reasons to Ditch the Pre-Made Packet

Martha Stewart

Whether poured from a packet or ladled lovingly from the stove, hot cocoa's a hug in a mug. But why settle for the store-bought stuff when homemade is this quick -- and this delicious? These dark, white and milk chocolate peanut butter versions will make you a convert. Just know you'll have a hard time going back to those freeze-dried marshmallows.

Related: 17 Holiday Punch Recipes That Will Bowl Over Your Guests

Milk Chocolate and Peanut Butter Hot Cocoa

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
5 ounces milk chocolate, chopped (about 1 cup)
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

1. Warm milk and cream in a medium saucepan over a medium-low heat. Add chocolate, and whisk until melted and combined. Continue to warm mixture until thick, about 5 minutes. Whisk in peanut butter until smooth.

White-Chocolate Hot Cocoa with Coconut and Rum

1 cup whole milk
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
1 cup heavy cream
5 ounces white chocolate, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 tablespoon rum

1. Warm milk, coconut milk, and cream in a medium saucepan over a medium-low heat. Add chocolate, and whisk until melted and combined. Continue to warm mixture until thick, about 5 minutes. Whisk in rum.

Related: Savor the Moments: Holiday Brunch Recipes to Enjoy With Your Family & Friends

Dark-Chocolate Hot Cocoa

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
5 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 tablespoons light-brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1. Warm milk and cream in a medium saucepan over a medium-low heat. Add chocolate. Whisk until melted and combined. Add sugar, and whisk until dissolved. Continue to warm mixture until thick, about 5 minutes. Whisk in nutmeg.

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Here's another comfort food that's worth making from scratch.